There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup to brighten up a chilly day. Bursting with bold, zesty flavors, this dish is the perfect way to bring a little Tex-Mex flair to your dinner table. With tender ground beef, creamy beans, and a kick of spices, this soup delivers comfort and excitement in every spoonful.

I discovered this recipe while craving the flavors of enchiladas but wanting something quicker and easier to prepare. It quickly became a family favorite for its one-pot convenience and crowd-pleasing taste. Let’s dive into why this soup is about to become your new go-to meal.

Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this flavorful, satisfying soup. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pot and minimal prep, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but cravings are high.

Second, this recipe is packed with flavor. From the smoky chili powder to the rich enchilada sauce, every bite is layered with Tex-Mex goodness. The combination of hearty beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese makes it an instant hit.

Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes, this recipe feeds a family of four without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ground beef you already have on hand.

Finally, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, switch up the protein, or even make it vegetarian. It’s adaptable enough to suit any preference or dietary need.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Ground Beef Enchilada Soup lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering those bold, comforting flavors you love.

Ground Beef: This is the star of the soup, providing a rich, savory base. I recommend using 85/15 lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.

Enchilada Sauce: This is where the bold Tex-Mex flavors come in. Opt for a medium or mild red enchilada sauce, depending on your heat preference. Homemade or store-bought both work great here.

Beans: A combination of black beans and pinto beans adds heartiness and creaminess. Be sure to rinse and drain them well before adding to the soup.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These canned tomatoes add a tangy kick and subtle heat to the dish. Look for Rotel or a similar brand for the best results.

Chicken or Beef Broth: This provides the liquid base for the soup, helping to marry all the flavors together. Choose low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

You’ll also need staples like onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and shredded cheese to round out the dish. If you have a large soup pot or Dutch oven, you’re all set to create this one-pot wonder.

How To Make This Ground Beef Enchilada Soup

Crafting this soup is as simple as can be. Let’s break it down step by step for foolproof results every time.

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, sauté your diced onion and minced garlic in a splash of oil. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for the soup.

Next, return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir in your spices – chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the spices bloom for about a minute to enhance their flavor.

Pour in the enchilada sauce, broth, and canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Add the drained black beans and pinto beans to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Before serving, sprinkle in some shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or tortilla strips.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.

Refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as described above.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra beans or diced sweet potatoes.
Spice things up by using a hot enchilada sauce or adding diced jalapeños.
Stir in cooked rice or quinoa for added texture and bulk.
Experiment with toppings – try crumbled queso fresco, pickled onions, or fresh lime juice for a unique twist.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. However you choose to customize it, this Ground Beef Enchilada Soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.